Improving Overactive Bladder Treatment Access and Adherence Through Personalized Behavioral Modifications and Mobile Technology-Based Interventions

Summary

Overactive bladder (OAB) and urinary incontinence (UI) are chronic debilitating and embarrassing conditions that affect 33 million Americans. Yet, both are underdiagnosed and undertreated with significant financial and health-related consequences. OAB syndrome is characterized by urinary urgency, with and without urinary incontinence, urinary frequency, and nocturia. Evidence-based treatments are available, including behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy, and minimally invasive procedures. Diagnosis and treatment are also associated with improvement in urinary symptoms and overall quality of life (QOL).3 However, 70-80% of treated patients will discontinue use of therapy in the first year due to one of several factors (e.g., cost, tolerability, inadequate effect). In addition, only 4.7% progress to advanced therapies suggesting undertreatment for those that need it most. Vulnerable populations are especially at risk, as therapy utilization are lowest among older, lower income, and/or minority groups. Poor access, insufficient patient education regarding disease chronicity, expected outcomes, costs, and potential side effects lead to unrealistic patient perceptions about therapy. This leads to suboptimal therapy duration, poor treatment efficacy, adherence, and undertreatment. The study aims to evaluate a tailored patient-centered tool to begin the treatment process.

Eligibility

Age range

18+ years

Sex

Female

Healthy volunteers

Yes

Interventions

• Behavioral
  Patient Engagement Tool

  8 week daily patient education and engagement tool

Location